Table 2 Knowledge level of respondents regarding COVID-19 (N = 981)

 1.COVID-19 is an acute respiratory infection characterized by fever, dry cough, and fatigue.

857 (87.4)

 2.The genetic characteristics of COVID-19 are not significantly different from those of SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

621 (63.3)

 3.COVID-19 was not sensitive to heat.

676 (68.9)

 4.All infected cases present with symptoms of fever.

621 (63.3)

 5.People generally susceptible to COVID −19.

737 (75.1)

 6.Specific drugs are available to treat severe cases of COVID-19.

793 (80.8)

 7.COVID −19 can be spread through close contact with an infected person.

871 (88.8)

 8.COVID −19 can be spread by droplets produced when you cough, sneeze or talk to an infected person.

895 (91.2)

 9.Asymptomatic infected persons may become the source of the COVID − 19 infection.

786 (80.1)

 10.Cover your nose and mouth completely with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or bend your elbow to prevent COVID − 19 transmission.

647 (66.0)

 11.Saltwater gargling is effective in preventing COVID − 19 transmission.

697 (71.0)

 12.Drinking strong alcohol can effectively prevent COVID − 19 transmission.

832 (84.8)

 13.Wearing a mask can prevent COVID −19 transmission.

870 (88.7)

 14.Influenza vaccination is an effective means of preventing COVID −19 transmission.

637 (64.9)

 15.Avoiding crowded places can help prevent transmission of COVID − 19.

887 (90.4)

 16.Traditional Chinese medicine can be used to treat COVID −19 cases.

616 (62.8)

 17.So far, public data show that the mortality rate of the COVID −19 pneumonia is higher than MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome).

409 (41.7)

 18.So far, public data show that the mortality rate of the COVID −19 pneumonia is lower than that of SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

539 (54.9)

Average accuracy

73.6